Anthony Patrick Caunter, a robust and imposing figure with a distinguished balding crown, was a remarkably prolific British character actor, distinguished by his extensive and enduring tenure as Roy Evans, a car dealer, on the popular television series EastEnders, a stint that spanned an impressive 634 episodes over a remarkable nine-year period from 1994 to 2003.
Anthony Caunter was born in Southampton, England, to Roy Robert Caunter and Annie Mary Joy Caunter (née Stratton). He spent his formative years in Worthing, a charming seaside town on the southern coast of England.
Following his departure from school, Anthony decided to serve his country by joining the Royal Air Force (RAF). This significant decision marked the beginning of his journey as a member of the esteemed British military organization.
Upon completing his service with the RAF, Anthony returned to civilian life, eager to pursue his long-held passion for drama. He enrolled at the renowned London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA),an institution that has produced some of the most talented and respected performers in the entertainment industry.
Caunter's initial foray into the world of acting commenced with a stint on stage, where he honed his craft with the Farnham Repertory Company from 1966 to 1969. This early exposure to the performing arts laid the foundation for his future success, as he went on to join the esteemed Theatre Royal in Windsor from 1984 to 1989, further refining his skills and broadening his range.
Meanwhile, his screen debut had already taken place in 1962, marking the beginning of a long and illustrious career in television. Over the years, he secured a multitude of small yet significant supporting roles in various cult television shows, often finding himself cast in the role of a police officer. This recurring theme, where he would frequently portray members of law enforcement, served as a testament to his versatility and adaptability as an actor.
Notably, Caunter's impressive acting career was marked by a notable trifecta of appearances in the iconic science fiction series Doctor Who, specifically in 1963, where he took on the challenge of portraying three distinct characters, showcasing his remarkable range and versatility as an actor.
In addition to his Doctor Who appearances, Caunter went on to secure recurring roles in various notable television shows, including the esteemed Queenie's Castle in 1970, The Legend of Robin Hood in 1975, Beryl's Lot in 1973, Crown Court in 1972, Juliet Bravo in 1980, and The Chief in 1990.
Throughout his illustrious career, Caunter had a knack for taking on characters that were often imbued with authority, such as police officers, wheeler-dealers, and figures of authority, demonstrating his ability to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of roles.
Tony Caunter, a seasoned actor, bid farewell to his illustrious acting career in the year 2016, marking the end of an era in his professional life. Today, he resides in the picturesque county of East Sussex, England, where he shares a loving home with his devoted wife, Frances Wallace, and their blended family of three sons and one daughter.
